Think about telling someone for the first time that you go to Syracuse. You're almost guaranteed to hear something along the lines of, "Oh wow, it snows a lot up there," or, "I hope you've got a good pair of boots," or even, "Are you insane?" From November to April, we pretty much live in Antarctica, and that's okay. We come from the land of the ice and the snow and nothing can stop us. We lace up our boots, throw on our warmest layers, and wobble to class in -30 degree wind-chills (What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right?).
Our area is known for its cold. But what a lot of people don't think of when they hear "Syracuse" are all of the beautiful lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and over 350 miles of trails that Central New York has to offer! Here's a list of 10 of the best outdoor adventures for you and your friends to go on (and let's be real, take a quality Insta) this fall in 'Cuseland.
1. Chittenango Falls.
Chittenango Falls is less than 40 minutes away and is loaded with trails that surround its focal point, a 167-foot waterfall. Enjoy fishing, hiking, nature trails, and if you're feeling extra-outdoorsy, pack a lunch and eat outside at their picnic area!
2. Green Lakes.
Green Lakes isn't called Greek Lakes for nothing. A natural wonder of Upstate New York, the lakes in this park reflect a vibrant emerald that make you feel like you're walking in a painting. This park is HUGE and has everything you could want on a nice day: swimming, hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, canoeing, BBQ's, beaches, the list goes on and on, but one thing is for sure: you'll never be bored at Green Lakes.
3. Southwick Beach.
Southwick Beach State Park is as close to the Jersey Shore or Cape Cod as you're going to get in Upstate New York. On the coast of Lake Ontario, it's known for its amazing beach where you can swim, work on your tan, fish, or go for a hike in the woods nearby! Southwick Beach is the perfect place to go for your last beach outing of the year!
4. Sylvan-Verona Beach Area.
For a trip down memory lane with lots of activities, be sure to head to the Sylvan-Verona Beach Resort Area. There are a million things to do: from arcades to equestrian to amusement parks, this area is almost like taking a trip down to the Jersey Shore. Enjoy the beach during the day, then watch the sunset from the Verona Beach Lighthouse and head to the boardwalk for rides and games at night! 
5. Gorge Jumping in Ithaca.
If you've ever seen the slogan, "Ithaca is GORGES," no, it's not an unfortunate misspelling. Ithaca has over 150 waterfalls and gorges that are, in fact, gorgeous!! Take a day trip to Ithaca and go hiking up a waterfall, swim in the spring, and even go gorge jumping! After a long day of exploring, Ithaca has an incredible cute downtown filled with quaint shops, cafes, and exhibits.
6. Apple Picking.
Central New York is famous for its autumn: the beautifully changing leaves, the nippy weather, and its tons of produce!! There's nothing better than a crisp autumn day spent with friends picking apples and pumpkins, then heading back home to bake all sorts of yummy autumn dishes. 
Upstate New York has so much to enjoy before the snow comes, so grab your friends, your camera, and head outside this weekend!
